Making Space
Pursuits of nourishment and fulfillment fuel not only my work but also my life. The inspiration for this body of work comes from my love for food and more importantly eating. There are many so-called “rules” when it comes to eating and consumption. Such as portion shaming as a result of “eating too much”, these rules have a deep impact on one’s individual relationship with food and eating.
My goal with this work is to provide space for individuals to eat for enjoyment. I intentionally focus on the size of my pieces to make space for folks to be able fill their dish to their heart's content. Creating large, inviting, and comfortable dishware that allows for ample amounts of food is important because it validates the desire to eat large meals without shame or guilt. Eating and nourishing oneself is vital to existing, but taking pleasure in that nourishment is not only good for your body, but also your mind and soul.
Making Space has accessibility beyond that of a gallery. The pieces in this body of work can find a home anywhere; in a formal dining room, dinner on the couch or sitting on the floor, people can engage with the collection on a comfortable level.
There is also an association between form, food and how my pots are glazed. Using glaze to create drips, some running throughout multiple glazes, and some bold and standing on their own, creates a juicy attraction. This also adds a textural element for any dish held in one’s hands.
The pieces without drips display bright, dynamic, colorful glazes, still with the intent of creating a delectable surface for one to consume from. I integrate the sensation of eating, both through the movement of different foods and the way our bodies react to the food, like salivating, into my glazes through their texture and color.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, mental and physical wellbeing are at the forefront of my mind. I find myself getting excited and having more time to make delicious and extravagant meals. I am able to sit down and have ample time to enjoy my meals without rushing. Seeing the way the world is getting through the pandemic, by focusing on the things we can engage in, such as food, community through digital interaction, and spending quality time with ourselves, is only making this body of work that much more significant to me.
- Cristina Gaviria, 2020